Hey there, this is Brian Therrien from the Disability Digest. Today, I want to share why people lose their Social Security Disability benefits. This insight comes from my experience since 2006, interviewing thousands of beneficiaries and industry experts.
These are my opinions, but I hope this information helps you avoid common pitfalls or aids someone you know who receives these benefits.
Neglecting Medical Treatment
Many beneficiaries celebrate after being approved, thinking they can relax since they receive their monthly check and Medicare. However, it’s crucial to continue your medical treatment. Neglecting this can jeopardize your benefits. Stay tuned till the end for key steps to maintain your treatment.
Working and Earnings
Working can be a significant reason for losing benefits, falling into two main categories:
Undeclared Income: Some people work on the side and get paid in cash, thinking no one will find out. However, with the rise of traceable rideshare and gig apps, undeclared earnings can be easily detected. It’s essential to report your income to Social Security and adhere to the rules.
Exceeding Earnings Limit: There is a limit to how much you can earn while keeping your benefits. Working right up to this limit every month may indicate that you could work a different job with reasonable accommodations. Consistent earnings near the limit could trigger a review of your ability to work.
Missing Communication from Social Security
Believe it or not, people often lose benefits due to poor communication. They move without updating their address, neglect to check their mail, or fail to set up their phone correctly. Ensure you have clear communication lines to receive and respond to notices timely, usually within 60 days.
Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs)
Understanding your review schedule and preparing for it is crucial. We offer a comprehensive course with expert attorney James Mitchell Brown to help you navigate these reviews. Join us for free to access this valuable resource. If unsure about CDRs, search for the Social Security Disability Water Flow Chart online. It shows about 1.5 million reviews annually, as Social Security aims to cut costs by reviewing cases.
Conditions That Can Improve
If you recover from conditions like heart attacks, strokes, or surgeries, you might qualify for a closed period of disability. However, your benefits will likely stop once you recover. Ensure you have thorough medical documentation if you continue to be unable to work.
Legal Issues
Getting incarcerated leads to a loss of benefits, and it’s challenging to reinstate them afterward. Avoid legal troubles to maintain your benefits.
Key Steps to Keep Your Benefits
The rules for obtaining and retaining benefits are similar. You need to:
- Have your conditions diagnosed and treated according to your doctor’s advice.
- Ensure your conditions still limit your ability to work.
Failing to follow these steps can lead to losing your benefits.
At the Disability Digest, we provide videos and a no-charge membership for a customized approach to help you get or keep your benefits. Check out our resources and consider joining us for additional support.
I hope this helps you maintain your benefits. Make it a great day!